10 Ideas for a Small Kitchen, Inspired by Designers

A small kitchen can be made convenient if you're ready to compromise: for example, replace solid cabinets with open shelves or give up the dining table. When it's impossible to increase the usable area, you can mask the modest size using decoration. We share our ideas.

Compact Kitchen Appliances

Compact kitchen appliances can save space for storage systems. Instead of a four-burner cooktop, choose a model twice as small, and among built-in ovens find one that combines several functions. You won't need to look for space for a microwave oven.

Design: Anna Vorobieva

Cabinet in Wall Color

Paint the walls in the color of cabinet fronts: this way you can mask bulky furniture and make the space visually more open.

Design: Julia Shmidt, Alexandra Taranova

Windowsill Instead of Bar Counter

If the height of the windowsill allows it, use it to create a place for eating or working with a laptop. This is especially relevant if you have a good view from the window.

Design: Boomplanner

Cabinets on the Wall Next to the Window

To fit more, sometimes you need to change the layout. Move some cabinets to the wall with the window and use the space between them for a bench with cushions.

Design: Marina Sarkisyan

Cabinet Depth of 30–40 cm

If a standard cabinet with a depth of 60 cm blocks part of the window opening, make it smaller. The furniture will look less bulky, and its storage capacity won't disappoint.

Design: Olga Zaretskikh

Cabinets Under the Window

Another way to organize additional storage is to use the space under the window and install a series of shallow cabinets there. Just ensure space for the heating radiator.

Design: Galina Yuryeva

Mirror Wall

A mirror wall can visually expand the space and add light. It's more convenient to use mirrors cut into small elements at the factory.

Design: Geometrium

Open Storage

Give up some of the upper cabinets in favor of open shelves. They not only slightly declutter the interior but also serve as excellent decoration.

Design: Olga Zaretskikh

Worktop and Table: 2 in 1

When space is limited, combine multiple functions. For example, a kitchen countertop can simultaneously serve as a dining and work table.

Design: Nikolai Vashantsev

Single Worktop

Different heights of cabinets, windowsill, and table are particularly noticeable in small kitchens. To avoid this, calculate dimensions in advance and plan for a single worktop to be made.

Design: Marina Merenkova